Four Firkins to close up shop
Original post - June 2015
I always like reading these old posts of mine just to see how bad my writing was compared to now…zing. But also I like these old articles cuz it brings me back to when the beer scene was young and how many problems from back then have been resolved and how some have not. But the main take away is to see how the scene has grown.
The Four Firkins was the first “craft beer only” store that I’ve ever went to, so it was a sad day to see it close.
- Yesterday The Four Firkins announced on their website that due to heavy competition from the lack of Sunday Sales and big box stores, both of the Four Firkins liquor store locations will close it’s doors for good.
It was just last fall that a second location was opened in Oakdale after a controversial crowdfunding campaign took place to raise capital for the second.
Many donated money to the store to keep it going and now those people are left wondering if their contributions were a wise decision or not because both stores will be closed. I personally thought it was not the best way of going about it but, crowdfunding seems to be the way things get done these days.
The Firkins received the funds they needed to survive and then opened the second location. I did end up going to Oakdale location to check it out and even bought some beer.
So now the announcement of closure has been made and craft beer lovers are at a loss for words. Good thing is that craft beer in Minnesota is not dead, but future sales for smaller stores like the Firkins are up in the air as bigger box stores like Total Wine move into town.
The following is a clip of the email sent out by the store…
“It is with great sadness that I announce the closing of The Four Firkins. Friday, June 26, will be the last day of operation for the Oakdale store and Saturday, June 27, will be the last for the St. Louis Park store.
Due to increased competition from big-box retailers and grocery stores, as well as other factors (highway closures, Sunday sales laws), we are unable to continue to provide the high-quality, personalized retail experience we expect and our customers deserve. It’s disappointing, but ultimately it’s the right decision.
The last eight years working with this incredible staff, in this vibrant community, and serving our customers every day, have been more fun and meaningful than I could possibly put into words. I appreciate all the energy everyone has put into making the Firkins what it is – a true home for beer lovers and a supporter of our communities.
Thank you all for the business, the memories and the friendship. We had a good run and did some amazing things. I’ll treasure the experience forever.
